What to Expect

How do I follow the worship?

Your bulletin contains what you need or will direct you to the red hymnal, referred to as ELW. Page numbers are in the front of the book; hymns are in the second half. The creeds are on the inside back cover of the hymnal.

What is the prelude?

The prelude is music intended to prepare us for worship. It is a time when we listen, possibly pray, and think about what God may be up to this day in our hearts in word and sacrament. It’s also a time to respect the gifts of volunteers and others who offer their talents to the community and God.

What is the procession of the cross?

As the entrance hymn begins, the processional cross is carried to the center of the congregation. It is appropriate to turn and follow the cross during the procession.

For our Parents of Young Children

Relax-God put the wiggle in children, and you can rest assured that we are glad they are here worshiping with us. Consider sitting near the front of the church where your child can easily see and participate in worship. Help them follow the service in the bulletin or hymnal, or grab a “Quiet Book” available in the narthex. These are great ways to keep your child engaged. We also have a children’s sermon at our 11:00 a.m. service. If your child has questions about worship, one of our staff members would be glad to talk with your child and you.

If your child needs a break, feel free to use our parlor, located across the hall from the sanctuary. Parents and children may sit in the parlor and still see and hear the service.

If you need a quiet place to nurse your baby we have a nursing mother’s room right next to the nursery.

Where is the nursery?

A professionally staffed nursery for children up to age 4 is available during our 11:00 a.m. service and located down the hall through the double doors and straight into the next building. Please feel free to ask an usher for assistance.

What is the passing of the peace?

After the prayers, the people share the peace of God with one another. Ideally, this is not a time to catch up on news or yesterday’s game; rather, it is a time when we sincerely seek to model God’s offering to us of peace and grace.

What about Communion?

Holy Communion is celebrated at every Sunday service. The Lutheran church affirms the mystery of Christ’s presence “in, with, or under” the elements of bread and wine. The meal of grace is open to all who desire to come, including children. Usually we commune kneeling at the rail. Ushers will help direct the congregation. Simply receive the bread (the host) and keep it to dip in the wine. If you cannot eat the bread, try to let the pastor know before worship. If you cannot partake of wine, be assured of Christ’s presence in one element alone. Simply hold your arms to your chest as the chalice is offered. Those who do not desire communion, or small children who as of yet do not commune, are welcome to receive a blessing at the rail, indicating this by crossing your arms over your chest.

What about the crosses in the church and outside?

The cross you see when you sit in the pews has chains to represent human bondage to sin, guilt, and death that have been broken by Christ’s cross and resurrection. There are three chains to signify the Trinity. The cross outside is fashioned after the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) logo and represents the world, and all the colors thereof, on which God’s love was shown and given.